Why is this medication prescribed?

Actifed Cold and Allergy is prescribed to relieve symptoms associated with the common cold, allergies, or other upper respiratory conditions. It contains two active ingredients:

• Chlorpheniramine: This is an antihistamine that helps reduce allergy symptoms such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy or watery eyes.
• Phenylephrine: This is a decongestant that relieves stuffy nose and sinus pressure by narrowing the blood vessels in the nasal passages.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how to Use Actifed Cold and Allergy:

• Dosage: Follow the dosage instructions provided by your doctor or on the product packaging. The typical dosage for adults and children over 12 is usually one tablet every 4 to 6 hours, but do not exceed the recommended dose.
• Administration: Take the medication by mouth with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water. Do not crush or chew extended-release tablets, as this can release the drug all at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double the dose to catch up.
• Duration: Use this medication only as directed by your healthcare provider. Do not use it for longer than recommended, as long-term use can increase the risk of side effects.
• Precautions: Inform your doctor of any allergies, medical conditions, or other medications you are taking to avoid potential interactions. Avoid alcohol and other sedatives while taking this medication, as it can increase drowsiness. Use caution when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you, as it can cause drowsiness.

If you’re unsure about how to use it or if it’s the right medication for your condition, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional.

Other uses for this medicine

• Sinus Congestion: The decongestant (phenylephrine) can help relieve sinus pressure and congestion.
• Hay Fever: The antihistamine (chlorpheniramine) helps alleviate symptoms caused by seasonal allergies, such as sneezing, runny nose, and itchy eyes.
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: It can be used to manage symptoms of other upper respiratory tract infections, not just the common cold.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Actifed Cold and Allergy:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any known allergies to chlorpheniramine, phenylephrine, or any other ingredients in the medication.
• High Blood Pressure: Since it contains a decongestant, it may increase blood pressure or heart rate, so it should be used cautiously if you have hypertension.
• Glaucoma: The antihistamine can increase intraocular pressure, which might be problematic for individuals with glaucoma.
• Heart Disease: Consult your doctor if you have any heart conditions.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your healthcare provider as it may not be recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Interaction with Other Medications: Be cautious if you’re taking other medications, particularly those affecting blood pressure, heart rate, or other antihistamines.
• Alcohol and Sedatives: Avoid consuming alcohol or using other sedatives, as they can increase the sedative effects of chlorpheniramine, leading to enhanced drowsiness and dizziness.
• Operating Machinery: Be cautious when driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medication affects you, as it can cause drowsiness.
• Overuse: Do not use more than the recommended dose, as overuse can increase the risk of side effects and potential overdose.
• Children and Elderly: Use with caution in children and the elderly, as they may be more sensitive to the side effects.

Always read the label and follow the instructions carefully. If you have any specific health concerns or conditions, it’s best to discuss them with your healthcare provider before using it.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary restrictions for Actifed Cold and Allergy. However, it is generally a good idea to:

• Avoid Alcohol: As it can enhance drowsiness and increase the risk of side effects.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to help manage dryness in the mouth or throat, which can be a side effect of antihistamines.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If You Remember Soon After: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
• If It’s Almost Time for the Next Dose: Skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Actifed Cold and Allergy, like any medication, can cause side effects. Common side effects include:

Common Side Effects:

• Drowsiness: Chlorpheniramine can cause drowsiness or sedation.
• Dizziness: May feel light-headed or dizzy.
• Dry Mouth, Nose, or Throat: Antihistamines can reduce saliva production, leading to dryness.
• Headache: Can occur as a side effect of both chlorpheniramine and phenylephrine.
• Nausea: Upset stomach or nausea may occur.

Serious Side Effects:

• Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: Phenylephrine can affect heart rate.
• High Blood Pressure: Can be aggravated by phenylephrine.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Severe Drowsiness: Excessive sedation can impair your ability to perform daily activities.

Rare Side Effects:

• Confusion or Mental Changes: Particularly in elderly patients.
• Difficulty Urinating: Can be a concern for those with urinary tract issues.
• Vision Problems: Such as blurred vision, especially in those with glaucoma.

If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. They can help determine if the medication is causing the issue and whether it should be adjusted or discontinued.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Actifed Cold and Allergy:

Storage:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture.
• Container: Keep the medication in its original container with the lid tightly closed.
• Children: Store out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal:

• Do Not Flush: Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into drains unless instructed to do so.
• Drug Take-Back Programs: Use drug take-back programs or locations if available in your area to safely dispose of unused or expired medication.
• Household Trash: If no take-back programs are available, you can dispose of the medication in your household trash by mixing it with an undesirable substance (like used coffee grounds or cat litter) and placing it in a sealed plastic bag or container.

In case of emergency/overdose

Symptoms of Overdose:

• Extreme drowsiness
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Severe dizziness or headache
• Confusion
• Difficulty breathing
• Contact Emergency Services: Call 911 or your local emergency number immediately.
• Poison Control: Contact your local poison control center for guidance. In the U.S., you can call the Poison Control hotline at 1-800-222-1222.

What other information should I know?

• Consult Healthcare Providers: Always consult your doctor or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing the dose of this medication.
• Interactions: Be aware of potential drug interactions and discuss them with your healthcare provider.
• Follow Instructions: Adhere to the prescribed dosing schedule and instructions to minimize the risk of side effects and ensure effectiveness.
• Health Conditions: Inform your healthcare provider of any pre-existing health conditions to ensure the medication is safe for you.
• Regular Check-Ups: Regularly review your medication regimen with your healthcare provider, especially if you have ongoing health issues or are taking other medications.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure the safe and effective use of AccuHist. If you have any specific questions or concerns, your healthcare provider or pharmacist can provide additional personalized advice.